A KARABAGH EMBROIDERY, EAST CAUCASUS |

worked in cross stitch over two threads, in polychrome silk threads, in red, dark and light blue, light green, bright yellow, yellow ochre, purple-brown, pale brown and white;mounted on a stretcher

Private Collection, Graz

Black, David & Loveless, Clive, Embroidered Flowers from Thrace to Tartary, London, Spring 1981, Exhibition Catalogue, no.16

Overall measurements: 70cm across the top, 70cm across the bottom, 127cm along the left side, 127cm along the right side Bag lined on reverse. Attached to linen strips with Velcro so that it can be adjusted on its stretcher. There is a small water mark on one edge of linen, and a couple of wear holes on linen at the other end, both are not related to the textile. Light coloured leaf pointing down and to the right, then to the left of the centre octagon there are some minor losses to the brown, and minor losses to browns in a hook to the top lobed motif. Possibly restored browns, as two colours of brown, softer more walnut shade of brown and a darker brown. However if any restoration, and this is by no means clear, then it has been so impeccably done that it is not discernible.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

 "Bought from London dealers David Black and Clive Loveless in the old days. It was a pleasure to do a deal for a goodie and then play snooker billiards in the souterrain." (EH) For comprehensive discussion of these beautiful embroideries, and specific see Morehouse, Brian, 'A shared design lexicon: Azerbaijan embroideries and rugs, Chp. 10, pp.198-213, Stars of the Caucasus, Silk Embroideries from Azerbaijan, Hali Publications Ltd, London, 2017.